Search continues for Evan Mueller, missing since Sept. 13

Julie Reeder

Publisher

Evan Mueller was reported missing Sept. 13 from his home on Knoll Park Lane in Fallbrook. His partner of over six years, Rebecca Byrnes, family and friends have been looking with the assistance of the Sheriff, Rangers, Search and Rescue volunteers, and K-9 search dogs.

"His family and friends are very concerned. They have flown in from all over including Washington state, Mexico and beyond. They have taken off work and come from Hesperia and Chula Vista. They are all very concerned," said Byrnes.

It was reported that Mueller left during the day while Byrnes was at work. He also left behind his wallet and cell phone. She believes he also took with him a green jacket and some prayer beads.

Mueller was reported to be wearing black toe shoes, and black three-quarter length sweats. His green jacket is quilted and does not have a hood. Mueller did have long hair and a full beard, although pictures distributed of him also include a time when he was clean shaven. He is a white male, 40 years old, 5'8" with brown hair.

San Diego County Sheriff Lt. Aldo Hernandez from the Fallbrook substation said the Sheriff used a helicopter to try and find him in case he was hiking in the Santa Margarita River Valley. He said, "We called in Search and Rescue, but because Evan appears to have voluntarily walked away, it didn't fit their criteria, but the deputies have continued to go out." He continued, "We did register him as missing, but if an officer runs across him the only thing they can really do is let him know his family and the community are looking for him because he's an adult and he's voluntarily missing." He also added that there was no evidence of any foul play.

Byrnes said, "...We're all so concerned. He's so valuable to his friends and family. We've raised Heaven and a whole lot of angels came out to help. Dan Conway brought a large group of volunteers from various Search and Rescue nonprofits in San Diego County and Southwest Service Dogs brought a group of beautiful dogs." She said the dogs followed Mueller's scent down to the Santa Margarita River.

She said, "The rangers have gone above and beyond to try and find Evan, and the Thunder Renaissance Crew has come out and has been amazing." She continued, "Rabbit" and the group [Renaissance Crew] are from the Escondido area and they are all up here helping."

Byrnes is asking for anyone who has information or may have seen him to please call Mueller's mom, April, at 425-286-7827.

Volunteers have been looking along the trails of the Santa Margarita River as Byrnes suspects that may be where he went. Her concern is that he has an allergy that could affect him if he is bitten by ants and he took no supplies with him.

Private Investigator Tony Campbell/AC Investigations contributed to this story.